How do we recognize a myth? Usually, there are several of the following characteristics:
Communication between human and divine beings ["divinity" or "divine being" = God or god(s)/goddess(es)]
Includes beasts
Explains the way the world is, or the relationship between human and divine beings
Includes divine being(s) with exceptional powers
Explains nature
Teaches a moral lesson, is concerned with right/wrong, or evil/good
Includes heroes, humans who perform amazing feats
Explains what happens after death
Now choose one of the myths you have read and discuss which characteristics it demonstrates, as we did with the example below:
Why Mosquitoes Buzz in Peoples Ears … A West African tale
mosquito_image.jpg
The West African fable traces a series of events that starts with a harmless fib, but leads to an owlet's death and the failure of the sun to rise.This story shows several characteristics of a myth. This story explains nature, as the mosquitoes buzz in people’s ears, asking if everyone is still angry with them. Many beasts are included in this story, such as the owl, the python, the iguana, and King Lion. Myths often explain the way the world is.In this folk tale,each character passes the blame to another. Perceived threats are often exaggerated to the point of a chain reaction. There is a moral lesson: a small comment intended as a joke may have unintended tragic consequences. This is one of many enjoyable animal legends of Africa.
Now choose one of the myths you have read and discuss which characteristics it demonstrates, as we did with the example below:
Why Mosquitoes Buzz in Peoples Ears … A West African tale
The West African fable traces a series of events that starts with a harmless fib, but leads to an owlet's death and the failure of the sun to rise.This story shows several characteristics of a myth. This story explains nature, as the mosquitoes buzz in people’s ears, asking if everyone is still angry with them. Many beasts are included in this story, such as the owl, the python, the iguana, and King Lion. Myths often explain the way the world is.In this folk tale,each character passes the blame to another. Perceived threats are often exaggerated to the point of a chain reaction. There is a moral lesson: a small comment intended as a joke may have unintended tragic consequences. This is one of many enjoyable animal legends of Africa.